Town’s £14m library and museum plans set for approval

A NEW town centre central library and museum are recommended to be approved for planning permission.

The £14m project has been recommended for approval by Doncaster planning officers.

Councillors on the planning committee will have the final say at a meeting on Tuesday, August 21.

The Cultural and Learning Centre, based on Chequer Road, is hoped to be completed by the summer of 2020. Construction could begin next month.

The four-storey structure incorporates the historic Hall Cross Girls School building.

The plans see four existing buildings at Doncaster Central Library, Doncaster Archives in Balby, Doncaster Museum and Art Gallery, and the Library Services for Schools at Top Road, Barnby Dun, centralised to one building.

The new building will also become home to the Kings Own Yorkshire Light Infantry exhibition, education space, a start-up space for businesses and training and conference facilities.

Planning officer Mel Stopforth said “Doncaster Civic Trust is very pleased to see the project coming forward. The retention of the former Girls school is welcome and enhances the character of the new building and preserves a familiar 108 year old landmark.

The proposal is an appropriate use for this site and will enhance the Civic and Cultural Quarter.”